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Vinícius Reports Racist Abuse as Real Madrid Beat Benfica in Halted First Leg

UEFA will examine the incident under its anti-racism procedures ahead of the 25 February return leg in Madrid.

Overview

  • Referee François Letexier activated the anti-racism protocol with a crossed-arms signal and stopped play for about 9–11 minutes after Vinícius pointed to Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni.
  • Real Madrid won 1-0 at the Estádio da Luz through Vinícius’ 50th-minute strike, which preceded confrontations and a booking for excessive celebration.
  • Several Madrid players, including Aurélien Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde, said Vinícius reported being called a monkey, while Benfica and manager José Mourinho disputed that racist language was used.
  • Mourinho was sent off late on for dissent and will miss the second leg, and objects thrown from the stands included a bottle that struck Vinícius near full time.
  • Disciplinary officials are expected to review referee reports, testimony and footage, with possible sanctions to follow depending on the findings.